Maasai Mara Wildlife Photography & Conservation Photography

PROGRAM OVERVIEW

Explore the iconic Maasai Mara while aiding conservation efforts and building up a standout photography portfolio

The Maasai Mara Wildlife Photography and Conservation Project is an opportunity like no other. Through this uniquely crafted program, you have the chance to explore one of Africa’s premier wildlife destinations while contributing to valuable conservation work and expanding your portfolio under the tutelage of seasoned wildlife photographers – all at a pocket-friendly price! 

This iconic nature reserve is world-renowned for many reasons. With its healthy populations of lion, leopard, elephant, and buffalo the Mara is a haven for Africa’s lionized species. Now, picture all these incredible animals spread out through the reserve’s rolling grasslands, open savannah, meandering rivers, and formidable hills and you are transported to this picturesque sanctuary. You will spend your time shooting, editing, critiquing, and showcasing your photographs with a group of equally enthusiastic wildlife photographers and conservationists. 

During your stay, you will also have the opportunity to take part in conservation work and community outreach programs aimed at advocating for wildlife preservation. In addition, you will explore the surrounding community and immerse yourself in the Maasai culture. With all these incredible experiences, you’ll come back from this program with a deeper appreciation for wildlife, understanding of diverse cultures, and a stunning portfolio of photographs. 

ORGANIZATION

Penda is a dynamic social enterprise that employs photography to curate unforgettable experiences while generating positive change. With Penda Photo Tours, you can participate in photography workshops all around the world that focus solely on taking amazing pictures. Whether you want to photograph the Big Five in South Africa, encounter Mountain Gorillas in Rwanda, learn about street photography in Cuba, or photograph Brown Bears in Alaska, Penda has got you covered. All workshops are led by professional photographers who confidently guide participants to improve their skills throughout the experience. Penda strongly believes in the power of photography to do good, which is why many of their programs, like the Maasai Mara Project, directly support conservation efforts and positive grassroots initiatives.

TASKS & REQUIreMENTS

This photography and conservation program is a unique way to experience the Maasai Mara; as a wildlife photographer and conservation volunteer. As a wildlife photographer, you will spend your time shooting, editing, critiquing and showcasing under the guidance of our experienced photography instructors – Hanna Wigart and Sam Turley – and in the company of equally enthusiastic peers. Your instructors will guide you on ethical wildlife and cultural photography practices, offer tutelage on different photography skills, and help you build a stand-out portfolio.

You’ll also be contributing to local wildlife conservation efforts in a tangible way. As a wildlife volunteer you will tag along on wildlife counting exercises and field patrols with game rangers, this will include setting up camera traps. In many ways, you will be doing a bit of both photography and conservation work. For example by photographing conservation work such as road maintenance, mapping, soil erosion control, and invasive species removal for research and advocacy.

If your stay is longer than two weeks, you will have more time to explore this special place by diving deeper into conservation work and further exploring different wildlife photography techniques and opportunities.

RESPONSIBILITIES

• Assisting wildlife game rangers with wildlife counts
• Photographing conservation work
• Setting up and retrieving camera traps
• Engaging in intercultural dialogue with WTC students, Maasai herders, and the Mara community
• Presenting your photography work to the project group

REQUIREMENTS

• To qualify for this Maasai Mara Wildlife Photography and Conservation Project, you need to have basic photography skills to join. You don’t have to be a seasoned pro, but you do need to have a good camera, decent technical skills, and some experience – we will adapt your projects to your photography level.
• Bring your own SLR camera and a range of lenses; ideally including a wide angle lens, a tripod or bean bag, a sturdy camera bag, and a laptop
• An ability to work fairly independently
• A passion for using photography as a tool for positive change

WHERE YOU’LL STAY